How to start on LinkedIn with 0 followers

If LinkedIn feels like shouting into the void sometimes, you're not alone.

But here’s the thing: I went from 0 to 20,000 followers in six months and it wasn’t luck.

I treated my profile like a landing page, my content like a product, and my network like a goldmine of potential.

Here’s exactly how I’d do it again, step by step:

1. Your profile photo: It’s your first impression

Think of it as your digital handshake.

Use a high-quality, colorful photo where you look approachable and professional.

A blurry vacation pic? Hard pass.

The goal is to look like someone people want to connect with.

2. Your banner image: A billboard for you

This is prime real estate, and most people waste it.

Keep it clear and bold.

Showcase:

• What you do.

• A sprinkle of social proof.

• A simple call-to-action.

3. Custom button: Easy wins for big connections

LinkedIn lets you add a custom link to your profile.

Use it wisely!

Point people to your calendar, website, or a resource they’ll love.

4. Your headline: The 10-Second elevator Pitch

Your headline isn’t just a job title, it’s your hook.

Answer:

• What do you do?

• Who do you help?

• How do you make their life easier?

5. About section: Make it personal

This is your space to share your journey.

Why do you do what you do?

Who do you serve?

And how can you make their life better?

End with a strong CTA: “Let’s talk,” “Subscribe to my newsletter,” whatever works for your goals.

6. Featured section: Curate, don’t overwhelm

Forget stuffing this section with your top-performing posts.

Instead, use it to showcase resources that represent your brand.

Add links to your Calendly, product page, or newsletter signup.

Think of it as a virtual portfolio.

7. Recommendations: Let others do the talking

Recommendations = social proof gold.

Write recommendations for others first, it’s the easiest way to get some in return.

Focus on highlighting results and real outcomes in yours.

8. Your content: Follow the 4 P’s of LinkedIn

Every post should do one (or more) of these:

• Position you as an expert.

• Provide value your audience needs.

• Promote your services subtly.

• Personalize your brand with your story.

Consistency is the secret sauce.

Make it actionable, relatable, and worth stopping the scroll for.

The big picture: Your profile is your landing page

Every section, post, and link on your LinkedIn should guide visitors toward one goal: taking the next step.

Whether it’s booking a call, subscribing to your newsletter, or simply following you.

It all starts with a click.

What’s stopping you from getting started?

Cheers,
Dan